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Child molestation is a serious criminal offense in the US. If convicted, you will be sent to prison. The prison term is determined by state law and can vary from 1 year to 30 years depending on the circumstance. In some states, repeat offenders where the child involved is less than 14 years old may be given the death penalty.

Child molestation

In all states child molestation is a felony punishable by a prison term. The US Department of Justice defines child molestation as a broad term and includes inappropriate physical contacts or interactions between an adult and a child where the child is used for sexual stimulation of the adult when the adult is in a position to exercise power or control over the child. It general refers to an adult indulging in non-penetrative activity with a minor for sexual stimulation.

Penalties for child molestation

If convicted, you will be sentenced to prison. In prison the other inmates will not treat your properly. Incidents of child molesters being attacked by other inmates are becoming common. Besides the prison term, you may be ordered to pay a hefty fine. The judge can order you do undergo counseling and do community service. You will also be required to register your name as a sex offender in the state registry. This registry can be accessed by the general public.

Consequences

Those convicted of child molestation charges have to face social consequences in addition to the prison term and other penalties. First of all there is a stigma attached to a child molestation charge. It will remain with you through out your life. Conviction will establish a criminal record. So every time someone does a background check on you, the conviction will show up. Prospective employers will shy away from you. You will have problems getting a place to stay. Many landlords will be reluctant to have a registered sex offender as a tenant. During your trial you will be the subject of intense media attention. Wherever you go, you will always be labeled a child molester. The conviction will haunt you for the rest of your life. In many states if you are convicted of a felony, you are prohibited from possessing a fire arm.

Getting legal help

If you are facing a child molestation charge contact an experienced child molestation attorney. Without the services of an experienced attorney, you will find it very difficult to beat the charges against you. In a child molestation case everyone tends to believe the victim more than the accused.